Two different problems, not two versions of the same permit
DAFT and the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM, kennismigrant) permit both let non-EU nationals live and work in the Netherlands, but they solve different problems and most people don’t actually get to choose between them:
- DAFT is for US citizens who want to run their own business or work for themselves, based on the 1956 treaty. See the overview of DAFT.
- HSM is for anyone an IND-recognised employer is willing to sponsor at a qualifying salary, regardless of nationality. It is an employer-led route, not something you apply for on your own.
If you already have a Dutch employer willing to sponsor you at a qualifying salary, HSM is usually simpler and doesn’t require starting a business. If you want to freelance, start a company, or don’t have a sponsoring employer, DAFT (as a US citizen) is the route built for that.
The 2026 HSM salary thresholds, confirmed
Directly from ind.nl, the 2026 gross monthly salary thresholds for HSM are:
- €5,942 for applicants aged 30 or older
- €4,357 for applicants under 30
- €3,122 for the reduced criterion (recent graduates or orientation-year permit holders applying within 3 years of graduating)
Confirmed directly on ind.nl. The 8% holiday allowance is not counted toward these thresholds. EU Blue Card uses the same €5,942 figure, with its own reduced criterion at €4,754.
Side by side
| DAFT | Highly Skilled Migrant | |
|---|---|---|
| Who qualifies | US citizens only (treaty nationality) | Any nationality, if sponsored |
| Who applies | You, directly | Your employer, as an IND-recognised sponsor |
| Core requirement | Register a business, invest €4,500 capital | Qualifying salary (see thresholds above) |
| Ties you to an employer? | No. You run your own business | Yes, tied to the sponsoring employer |
| Initial permit length | 2 years, confirmed directly on ind.nl; see Extension and renewal | Not yet researched for this comparison |
The biggest practical difference isn’t on this table at all: whether you have, or want, an employer willing to sponsor you.
If you’re an employee, not an entrepreneur
If what you actually want is a Dutch job as an employee, DAFT is the wrong tool. It requires running a business, not holding a job. You’d need an employer willing to sponsor HSM, or another route entirely.
Next steps
If DAFT fits you, start with Requirements. If you’re not sure DAFT is the right route at all, that’s worth figuring out before investing time (and €4,500) in it; our bookkeeping partner can also help you think through the business side.